According to VisionServe Alliance, a recent study revealed that 12.5 million people over the age of 40 in the U.S. experience vision impairment. For those navigating vision loss, much can be done to adapt and maintain independence. At CABVI, we are dedicated to providing the vision rehabilitation services that empower individuals to live their fullest lives. Sheila Hardy is one of those individuals.
Sheila, a single mother of four, faced an unimaginable challenge in 2015. At the age of 44, she lost her vision shortly after giving birth to her twin boys, Evan and Devan, who arrived early at 32 weeks. During this time, Sheila experienced a buildup of fluid in her brain that put pressure on her optic nerve. While her twins grew stronger, Sheila underwent brain surgery to drain the fluid, but the damage to her vision was irreversible. She was left legally blind in her left eye with only a small amount of vision in her right.
Faced with the reality of raising LaMarr, 16, Evan and Devan, 10, and Shalea, 5, as a single mother, Sheila knew she needed to find ways to adapt and thrive. That’s when she turned to CABVI.
“CABVI got me back on my feet,” Sheila says. “Doors opened that I didn’t know existed. It was a whole new world.”
Through CABVI’s vision rehabilitation services, Sheila began to regain her independence. She learned to use low vision aids like a handheld magnifier, telescope, and CCTV to read her mail and help her children with homework. Adaptive cooking techniques, including bump dots on her appliances and a talking thermometer, made navigating the kitchen easier. She even learned to use assistive technology, like an adapted computer for email and VoiceOver on her iPhone, to stay connected with her family and the world around her.
CABVI also taught Sheila how to navigate her neighborhood using a white cane and Metro Access transportation services. Support groups offered encouragement, and Radio Reading Services helped her stay informed with local and national news.
“I operate in my own home like I can see,” Sheila shares. “I’m able to do so many things I thought I could never do again. The tools from CABVI have given me hope to keep persevering with my children and my life.”
Sheila’s journey is a testament to the impact of CABVI’s services. Her optimism and determination, combined with the support she received, have helped her overcome the challenges of vision loss and create a brighter future for her and her children.
Your generosity makes stories like Sheila’s possible. Your donations and support help us provide vital services that empower people who are blind or visually impaired to lead independent, fulfilling lives.
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